2019 - What a Year!

​​It’s frightening how quickly we are hurtling towards Christmas and clicking over to a brand new year and in fact, a whole new decade!   It’s safe to say that 2019 has whizzed past us all very quickly.  The saying goes that the past informs the future so let’s take a look at what has happened at HR Staff n’ Stuff over the year as it may help you determine some of the actions you want to take in 2020! 

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THE BIG STUFF
Firstly, a couple of key changes we highlighted that have or will impact many of our clients…

Key to many businesses was the Minimum Wage decision allowing for a 3% increase for all those under a Modern Award.  Most of you know this is reviewed every year and you need to be across the update to ensure you are paying your employees at the correct rate.  Even those who are paying above the Award should make sure that you are still above or equal to the increases.  The next update will come through in mid to late June 2020 and we will keep you informed. 

Big changes also came into effect for those businesses that need to be across penalty rates with a further reduction in the loadings applicable to Sundays.  For some awards, this is the second or third reduction in a tiered approach to reducing the level payable for prescribed shifts.  Both the retail and pharmacy sectors have one more change to come in July 2020.

We recently wrote about the changes to Whistleblower laws that requires action from larger specified entities by January 1, 2020.  With the introduction of both civil and criminal penalties applicable if it is determined there are breaches of the protections contained within this new Act, we highly recommend all companies have a Whistleblower policy in place as a matter of best practice. 

IT’S ALL ONLINE
It was a brilliant start to 2019 at HR Staff n’ Stuff as we launched a refreshed and exciting new website.  New shiny stuff is always exciting!  In our flash new Blog section we’ve covered a huge range of topics including pre-employment medicals, cashing out annual leave, delegation tips, sham contracting, 2 Second Lean, on-boarding and tips to improve employee retention to name but a few.  In 2020 we will continue to deliver key updates and blogs that will help support you in your business.  Feel free to email us with any requests or suggestions you may have around topics you’d like to read!

WE GREW
One of the most exciting things to happen in 2019 was the growth we had at HR Staff n’ Stuff.  We welcomed Kristi, Mariska, Sophie and Jacqui who joined Deb, Dani and Kari to round out the team of seven who’s sole focus is to deliver you awesome HR support and advice.   And it’s thanks to all our amazing clients who continue to have faith in us, share our details with other businesses and who are themselves growing and requiring additional HR support that has enabled our team to grow – so thank you for your continued belief in us!  

Bring on 2020!

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